Fashion Guide for Awkward Weather

Hailey Loftin
Staff Writer
      Fall in North Carolina is a difficult season for picking out what to wear, especially in late September and early October. School starts early enough in the day that the temperatures are too cold to wear shorts and a cute tank top, but it finishes at a time of day where it’s too hot to be in leggings and a flannel. A common problem among female students is being confused about what to wear in order to stay comfortable throughout the day. Below are ideas to help you get through temperamental early autumn and into the consistently cold temperatures that November brings.

Ecote Rib-Knit Open-Front Cardigan, $39.99, Urban Outfitters. Available in black & grey.

Layers, Layers, Layers
     Layers are a girl’s best friend in October. A summery tank top can be worn underneath a sweater or a denim jacket in the morning to keep warm. As the day gets hotter, your warm outer layer can be shed without disturbing the overall look of the outfit. This also allows a lot of variation with the bottom half of your outfit. If it’s really going to get warm in the afternoon, a heavy sweater over a solid-colored tank top or short-sleeved shirt can be paired with denim shorts and sandals. If it’s only going to warm up a little bit, a short-sleeved top with a denim jacket goes very well with jeans and boots or booties. Layering also lends itself to easy accessorizing. A statement necklace can be worn whether or not you keep on your outer layer as could a light scarf. A sleek bun or topknot adds an air of elegance to an outfit while curls or a loose braid gives a relaxed and playful look.

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Contemporary Tie-Front Chiffon Blouse, $19.80, Forever 21. Available in peach & cream.

Light Long Sleeves
      If you would rather not wear a layer that you have to take off and carry around for part of the day, a good option is a long-sleeved top made of light material with shorts or a skirt. Light long-sleeved shirts will keep you warm in the morning but will also allow some breathability through the hotter parts of the day. Shorts and sandals make a thin long-sleeved top seem less heavy. A skirt gives you multiple shoe options. Depending on the skirt’s material and what color it is, virtually any kind of shoe can be worn with it. Low-top Converse or sandals are good with a lighter-colored skirt while riding boots or heeled booties compliment a dark, wintery skirt. Headbands look great with these outfits, whether you choose to put up your hair in a messy ponytail or leave it down.

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Mattie Dress: $34.00, catchbliss.com. Available in navy, burgundy, & black.

Short Dress, Tall Boots
      A comfy, flowy dress with three-quarter-length or long sleeves is a staple all year long. In the summer, it can be worn with sandals or heels and a delicate necklace. In the fall, it is perfect with tall riding boots, knee socks, and a statement necklace or infinity scarf. This is one of those rare outfits that gives you a great look and keeps you comfortable during the day. To give the outfit a little more shape, add a thin belt at your waistline in a neutral color. A sweater or cardigan that compliments the color of your dress or your socks makes it perfect for a cold day. Tights are always great for cold days, and they come in many different thicknesses, making it easy to find some that work for you.

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      The most important thing is to make sure that you are comfortable in whatever you are wearing. If you do not like dresses and skirts, you cannot go wrong with leggings or shorts. Do not be afraid to try out different color combinations because at this time of year you can get away with bright colors or dark ones. Enjoy the last few weeks of warm temperatures before you settle into your winter wardrobe!